College Application Week
College Pathway
Destination Graduation!
Elementary School Junior High School High School AP Classes
Granite Technical Institute (GTI) Connection High Career Pathway
College Credit Demonstrated Competency Assessment (DCA)
Concurrent Enrollment High School Graduation Scholarships
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Utah Scholars FAFSA
Regents’ Scholarship Early College Job Shadow
Centennial Scholarship Flexible Learning Options Financial Aid
ACT and SAT
College and Career Readiness Plan (CCR-Plan)
First Generation College Student Utah Education Savings Plan
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)
Academic Plan Latinos in Action (LIA) Internship
Granite School District
2500 S State Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
www.graniteschools.org
Our charge and responsibility is that all students
will leave Granite School District prepared for
college, career and life in the 21st century world.
This planning guide provides information about the
options and opportunities in our schools, the
school district and our state that will support
students in their preparation for college, career
and life.
If you have questions or need more information
about any of the topics in this planning guide,
please contact and meet with your school
counselor. School counselors want to assist you
and help you map out a plan that will prepare you
to graduate from high school ready college, career
and life.
College and Career Readiness (CCR)
Department
385-646-4645
Judy Petersen, Director
japetersen@graniteschools.org
Kaye Poulton-Timm, Counselor Coordinator
kpoulton-timm@graniteschools.org
Cathie Schoeck, CCR Specialist
cschoeck@graniteschools.org
Andrea Miller, School Social Work Coordinator
amiller@graniteschools.org
Table of Contents
College and Career - Your Future
………………………………………………………………………………………….
1
Plan Now for College and Career
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
4
High School Graduation and Beyond
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
8
Options and Opportunities
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
13
Early College
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Flexible Learning Options
Other Options
College and Career Readiness Assessments ………………………………………………………………………………………
23
Utah’s Colleges and Universities
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
24
Paying for College – Financial Aid
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
25
Paying for College – Scholarships
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
27
College Bound Athletes
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
29
College and Career Readiness Checklists …………………………………………………………………………………………….
30
College and Career Readiness Terms
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
32
School Success
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
35
Important Policy
…………………………………………………………………………………………….
37
College and Career – YOUR Future!
Discussions about college and career readiness are everywhere – school, social media, newspapers and
magazines, websites, Presidential speeches and more. Utah’s public education and higher education offices
are making bold statements about the importance of college and career readiness. Utah business and
community leaders have organized an initiative called Prosperity 2020 to advance educational investment and
innovation. By 2020, 66% of jobs in Utah will require education and training beyond high school. Utah’s
educated and trained workforce of the future will propel our state to greater prosperity, improved quality of
life and the strongest economy in the nation. All students can prepare now to be ready for college and career.
What is College Ready?
College today means much more than a 4-year degree at a
university. Being “college ready” means being prepared
for any postsecondary education after highs school
graduation – a 1-year certificate or diploma, a 2-year
associate’s degree, a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Being
ready for college means that a high school graduate has
the English and mathematics knowledge and skills
necessary to qualify for and succeed in entry-level, creditbearing college courses without the need for remedial
coursework.
What is Career Ready?
In today’s economy a “career” is not just a job. A career
gives you a family-supporting wage, pathways to
advancement and requires college education and training.
Some may be able to get a job with only a high school
diploma but that alone may not guarantee job
advancement or mobility. Being ready for a career means
that you graduate from high school with the English and
mathematics knowledge and skills needed to qualify for
and succeed in the postsecondary education and
necessary training for your chosen career.
(Achieve, American Diploma Project, www.achieve.org)
Why Plan Now?
What you learn and study in elementary, junior high and high school will prepare you to be college and career ready. It’s
never too soon to start thinking about your future and what you need to do in school now to be ready for your future.
Think seriously about your future - set goals, focus on what you need to do and classes you need to take to be prepared.
Granite School District’s Charge and Responsibility
Students will leave Granite School District prepared for college,
career and life in the 21st century world.
1
Be Ready for College and Career!
What can you do now to get ready for college and career? The following are recommendations from education leaders
and the Utah System of Higher Education:
1
Build an Academic
Foundation:
Take challenging classes to
develop an understanding of
different subjects and a solid
academic preparation for collegelevel courses.
Create a 4-year College and Career Plan in 8th
grade. Pay attention to graduation
requirements, college recommended courses,
and career goals. Take Advanced Placement
(AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and/or
concurrent enrollment classes that lead to
college credit and provide direct experience in
college-level studies. Select concurrent
enrollment classes that apply to general
education requirements, a certificate or a
degree that fits educational plans.
2
3
Evaluate Progress for College:
Do the very best academic work
possible in every class you take.
Revise and update your 4-year CCR-Plan
as needed. Meet regularly with your
school counselor about your course
choices ask for advice on how to build
college readiness skills.
Use assessments like EXPLORE, PLAN,
ACT, or Accuplacer to determine how close you
are to being ready for college.
4
Explore Postsecondary Options:
Develop Intellectual
and Career Capacity:
Select courses in high school
that challenge your intellect
and develop critical thinking,
analysis, and problem-solving
strategies. Practice creative
problem solving, increase
written and oral communication and teamwork
skills, learn to think critically, and become
technology proficient.
Learn to manage your time and develop good
study habits that will only prepare you for
independence and how to handle homework in
college.
study.
Visit at least one college campus; take
a guided tour and ask questions. Learn
how much college costs. Attend a
financial aid and scholarship meeting
at your high school. Submit the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid
(FAFSA) by the priority deadline. Ask
your school counselor or a college
financial aid advisor about
scholarships, grants, loans, and work
Complete the steps necessary for college entry:
take a college entrance exam (ACT or SAT) and
submit a college admission’s application by the
priority deadline.
(Utah System of Higher Education 2012)
2
College Education = Opportunities
Your college education and training will be the best investment you will ever make. People with the most education and
training usually make the highest wages and have more opportunity for job advancement particularly if they study math
and science. A positive future awaits those who plan for education and training after high school graduation.
Top 5 Reasons to Go to College
1. A better paying job -- On average
college graduates earn as much as
65% more than high school
graduates. Most students want
the best paying job they can get.
2. A more secure future -- Statistics
show that people with higher
levels of education and advanced
training tend to have better job
security and stay ahead of
unemployment curves.
3. Respect -- Going to college and
earning a certificate, a diploma, or
a degree will help you feel better
about yourself and also help you
gain more responsibility and get
promotions at work.
4. More choices – Most jobs today
require specialized training that
you can only get in college. That
means you will need 1, 2, 4, or
more years of education and
training after high school to be
prepared for jobs in your future.
5. Be the first! Are you hesitant
because no one in your family has
gone to college? Start a tradition!
Education and training in college
can have a positive impact on you
and your entire family.
3
Plan Now!
It takes time to acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes you need to be ready for college and
career. The courses you take and the experiences you have each school year are developmentally
appropriate and sequentially put together so that each school year builds on the next.
EXPLORE your way to success in 7th grade!
Every 7th grade student takes College and Career
Awareness, a new course that sets a strong
foundation for college and career exploration.
Seventh grade students and their parents are
introduced to the CCR-Planning process and the
important role exploration plays in planning.
SET GOALS in 10th grade!
Take classes that prepare you to be college and
career ready. Your 4-year plan now includes
education after high school. Take classes at the GTI,
Granite Connect classes, concurrent enrollment, and
more. Set goals to get involved in school activities, to
do some community service, to take the most
rigorous classes you can, and to get the best grades
possible.
EXPAND 7th grade exploration in 8th grade!
Take elective classes in Career and Technical
Education (CTE), fine arts (art, music, and drama),
world language and more. The CCR-Planning process
in 8th grade includes creating a 4-year plan for high
school completion (9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades).
DECIDE to succeed in 11th grade!
Prepare for 1, 2, or 4 years of college education and
training after high school. Make all the necessary
preparations to reach your goals. Know where you
are going after high school graduation and how to get
there.
PLAN seriously in 9th grade!
Take time in 9th grade to plan your school schedule to
include classes related to your future college and
career goals. Plan to take classes that challenge and
prepare you for your future. Learn about the GTI,
Connection High School, flexible learning options and
other opportunities.
APPLY all of your knowledge in 12th grade!
Know that you can go to college! College after high
school is for all students. Keep your options open as
you make plans to attend 1, 2, or 4 years of college.
Complete college application, apply for scholarships
and financial aid.
4
Monitor Progress!
In addition to taking rigorous courses, monitor your progress toward completion of other college and career readiness
milestones.
Rigorous high school program of study in grades 9-12 aligned
to Utah Scholars Initiative/Regents’ Scholarship
4 years/credits of English
4 years/credits of math
3.5 years/credits of social science
3 years/credits of lab-based science
2 years/credits of a world language
College and Career Readiness Milestones
College
Level
Course (AP,
CE, IB)
CTE Skill
Certificate
and/or
Industry
Certification
CCR
Assessments
Explore
Plan
ACT
College
Application
FAFSA
Completion
College
Admission
High
School
Diploma
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Grades 8, 10
and 11
Grade 12
Grade 12
After Jan 1
Grade 12
College
Application
Week
Grade 12
(or earlier)
College
Enrollment
Fall
semester
after High
School
Graduation
5
Set Goals with College and Career in Mind
Goals make planning meaningful. How do you know what goals to set? Do some serious thinking about what you want
to accomplish in the future. Dream a little. Write down your thoughts and think about what steps to take, goals to set
that will help you make those dreams come true. Once you have something in mind, planning will make more sense and
hold more value. It will be easier to create a 4-year plan for high school and know what you need to do to be college
and career ready. Remember, If you don’t’ know where you’re going, you’re likely to end up someplace else!
Dream big! What do you see yourself doing
after high school – college, career and life?
What is your “dream” for YOUR future? Start with at least
three ideas or goals
1. Your college dream
___________________________________
2. Your career dream
___________________________________
3. Your life dream
___________________________________
What are some specific steps you can take to accomplish your goals?
_____________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Make your school experiences meaningful and productive, take charge!
Take classes that:
• Prepare you to reach your goals
• Meet graduation requirements
• Prepare you for 1, 2, 4 or more years of education and training after high school.
• Prepare you with marketable skills that lead to a job
Get involved and participate in a school club or other school activity groups.
Track your success! Keep a file of your grades, school progress, and school activities.
6
Plan Now!
Careful and thoughtful planning now will prepare you for high school graduation, college, career and life. Planning
begins by selecting the right classes. Some classes (like math) will be taken in a specific order. Other classes have
prerequisites – taking a beginning level before an advanced level. Electives are classes you choose to take to expand
your knowledge and skills, to enhance your personal talents and abilities and/or prepare you for a career. The student
in the story below is like many students in Granite School District. He has selected classes that support his personal
goals and interests and college and career readiness.
This could be your story!
Sam is a junior (11th grade) at one of our Granite School District high schools. He
has been planning since elementary school for high school, college, and career.
By the time he graduates, he will have high school credits from four different
places including his home high school, Granite Technical Institute (GTI),
Connection High, and demonstrated competency assessment (DCA).
Sam will take a concurrent enrollment course where he will earn both high
school and college credit. He is also taking AP US History. By taking the AP
exam for this course at the end of the school year, Sam can earn college credit.
At the GTI, Sam is enrolled in the Professional Pilot Program. This is a two-year
program, and at the end of his senior (12th grade) year Sam will have 12 college
credits toward his Flight Technology Degree from Salt Lake Community College.
Sam is also interested in computers, music, and sports. He took a Career and
Technical Education (CTE) course in computer programming and repair. He sang
in the junior high concert choir and is playing high school football.
Sam will be the first to go to college in his family. In 8th grade, he and his
parents learned about the Utah Scholars Program and AVID. His high school
classes follow the Utah Scholars Program, so he will be eligible to apply for the
Regent’s Scholarship during his senior year. He will also be close to meeting the
requirements for the New Century Scholarship by the time he graduates. Sam is
taking AVID courses to equip him with skills and knowledge he will need to be
successful in college. He will leave high school ready for college and career.
7
.
High School Graduation and Beyond
Focus on graduation requirements as you create your 4-year CCR-Plan. Graduation requirements are a set of core
classes that all students must take to receive a high school diploma. Granite School District requires that students earn
27 credits to graduate from high school. Credits begin to accrue in 9th grade. Earn all of the required credits each year in
order to stay on-track to graduate. Most students will graduate with more credits than they need, and that’s great!
Graduation requirements are minimal requirements so by taking more classes than what’s required like college prep,
GTI and concurrent enrollment courses you can maximize your high school experience.
Did you know?
The majority of Utah’s high school students are maximizing their education and learning opportunities and opting for a
rigorous 4-year high school experience. They do this by:
• Participating in concurrent enrollment courses and options
• Taking advanced career and technical education (CTE) courses
• Taking and passing skills certification tests connected to CTE courses
• Graduating early and utilizing the Centennial Scholarship option
• Graduating from high school with an associate's degree and qualifying for the New Century Scholarship
• Taking courses that qualify for the Regent’s Scholarship
• Participating in early college programs in both community colleges and applied technology colleges
• Participating in work-based learning opportunities (internships, job shadowing, etc.)
• Volunteering their time in their communities and learning the importance and the value of service
• Accessing courses through Connection High or other online programs
If you want to take advantage of everything available, you’ve got to plan. Creating a 4-year high school plan is a good
place to start. The 4-year plan begins in 8th grade and is updated and revised as your interests and needs change.
Parents, teachers, and especially your school counselor can help you with the 4-year planning process. Get important
information, advice and suggestions for your plan. Use interest, aptitude and other test results to inform your decisions.
Your individual CCR-Plan meetings with your school counselor will become a very important part of the 4-year planning
process.
Plan with a goal in mind!
Your future will require college education and training after high school. It
makes sense to choose high school classes with a college goal in mind. For
example, if applying for the Regents’ Scholarship is one of your goals choose
courses now that will meet its requirements. That means you must complete
two years of the same world language in grades 9-12. You need to know that
now in order to fit it into your plan. If you take time to plan and fill in the
details for classes with a goal in mind, you will be better prepared. If you fail to
plan, you may not take classes in the right sequence or classes that are
prerequisite to others. Use the worksheets and planning tools on the pages that
follow to help you plan with your goals in mind.
8
Pathway
HIGH SCHOOL COURSE SELECTION RECOMMENDATIONS
Subject Areas
English
Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Directed
Coursework
Physical
Education/
Health
Required Electives
High School Graduation*
College and Career Readiness Pathways
Regents’ Scholarship**
Granite School District
Graduation Requirements
1- & 2-Year Certificate and
Degree Pathway
2-Year Transfer and 4-Year
Degree Pathway
Course Requirements
4.0 credits
Concentrate on developing
technical reading, writing,
and research skills
Concentrate on developing
reading, writing, and research
skills.
4.0 credits of English**
Take required mathematics
courses and focus on the
application of math
concepts related to your
career goal in your CCR-Plan.
Take a mathematics class in
the senior year.
3.0 credits
1.0 credit Secondary Math 1
1.0 credit Secondary Math 2
1.0 credit Secondary Math 3
3.0 credits
2.0 credits from the four science
foundation areas:
Earth Systems, Biological Science,
Chemistry, or Physics
1.0 credit from the foundation
courses or Applied or Advanced
Foundation science core list
3.5 credits
1.0 credit U.S. History
1.0 credit Geography
1.0 credit World Civilization
0.5 credit U.S. Gov. and
Citizenship
3.5 credits
1.5 credits Fine Ares
1.0 credit Career and Technical
Education
0.5 credit Computer Tech
0.5 credit General Financial
Literacy
2.0 credits
8.0 credits
Three credits of science will
prepare you for college.
Choose foundation, applied,
or advanced courses aligned
with your CCR Plan goals.
Students interested in STEM
degrees should take at least
one math course beyond
Secondary Math 3 (Algebra II).
Three credits of science will
prepare you for college.
Choose foundation, applied, or
advanced courses aligned with
your CCR-Plan goals.
Select social studies classes
that provide a strong
academic foundation and
also enable you to explore a
variety of career paths.
Students interested in STEM
degrees should take 4 credits
of science.
Select social studies classes
that provide the strong
academic foundation and also
enable you to explore a variety
of career paths.
Choose electives that
concentrate in a pathway
that meets your high school
graduation requirements
and provides depth (two or
more courses) in an area of
interest.
Build a foundation for a
healthy lifestyle; it is
important for college and
career success.
Select electives that focus on
your CCR goals and chosen
pathway.
Requirements
27.0 credits School Diploma
*24.0 credits Granite District
Diploma (*See page 44)
Meet your district’s
requirements for
graduation.
For the graduating class of
2015, students take all
Common Core courses and
one additional progressive
course.
3.0 credits of lab-based
science courses to include
one each of Biology,
Chemistry, and Physics
3.5 credits of social science
Choose directed coursework
associated with your career
path. CTE and fine arts courses
allow you to explore these
areas. Take a challenging
computer technology course to
prepare for college-level
projects.
Build a foundation for a
healthy lifestyle; it is important
for college and career success.
Maximize your senior year!
Take challenging courses!
Recommend 2.0 years of the
same world language, other
than English, in a progressive
manner during grades 6-12.
World Languages
4.0 credits of progressive
mathematics
Meet your district’s
requirements for graduation.
Require 2.0 credits of the
same world language,
other than English, taken in
a progressive manner
during grades 9-12.
Meet school district
graduation requirements.
*For more information on Utah High School Graduation Requirements visit http://schools.utah.gov/curr/main/Gradinfo.htm
**For list of courses that satisfy Regents’ Scholarship requirements see www.regentsscholarship.org
COURSES MEETING GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Required Areas
English/Language Arts – Three courses from the Foundation
Courses plus one course from the Applied/Advanced Courses
Foundation Courses
English 9 (core, SPED, ESL, honors)
English 10 (core, SPED, ESL, honors)
English 11 (core, SPED, ESL, honors, AP, IB)
AP Language and Composition/Literature and Composition
Approved Concurrent Enrollment Courses** IB English**
(**Courses can be used for once credit in Applied/Advanced.)
Math
1.0 credit Secondary Math 1
1.0 credit Secondary Math 2
1.0 credit Secondary Math 3*
Credits
4
Courses
Applied/Advanced Courses
English 12
Basic Writing Skills
Basic Reading Skills
Business Communication
College Prep English
Debate
Technical and Professional Comm.
Humanities
Journalism 2-6
Literature
Literary Magazine
Creative Writing 1 and 2
1
1
1
0.5
Applied/Advanced Courses*
Accounting I and II
Computer Programming
AP Calculus AB or BC
College Prep Math
AP Statistics
Introductory Calculus
Introductory Statistics
Mathematical Decision Making for Life
Medical Math
**Mathematics of Personal Finance
Modern Mathematics
IB
Concurrent Enrollment 1010, 1030, 1040, 1050, or 1060
(**May waive Financial Literacy)
Applied/Advanced Courses
Advanced Electronics
Human Physiology
Agricultural Biotechnology
Marine Biology
Agricultural Science I, II, III, or IV
Material Science
Anatomy and Physiology
Medical Anatomy & Physiology
Animal Science I or II
Medical Forensics
Applied Biology and Chemistry
Meteorology
Aquaculture
Natural Resource Science I or II
Astronomy
Physiology
Basic Electronics
Plant Science
Biotechnology
Pre-Engineering
Botany
Plant & Soil Science I or II
Digital Electronics
Principles of Engineering – PLTW
Digital Electronics – PLTW
Wildlife Management
Ecology
Zoology
Environmental Science
Concurrent Enrollment Science Courses
Geology
IB
Investigation Science
Other Courses (May substitute for foundations courses)
AP European History/AP World History/IB World Studies HL/IB History of
Europe SL or HL/IB European History HL2
AP US History/IB History of Americas SL or HL
AP American Government/CE
American National Government (POLS 1100)
Fine Arts
1.5
Art
Health
Physical Education
Foundation Course:
PE Fitness for Life (0.5)
.5
Health Health CE
Advanced Health
PE 1-2 (Participation Skills 9th)
Lifetime Sports (Wt. Training, Swim, Athletics, Aqua Aerobics Aerobics)
Social Dance
(0.5 credit for two seasons of competitive sports)
Dance
Computer Technology
Concurrent CIS 1020 (SLCC)
3
(Math course titles changed to Common Core Mathematics
Fall 2011. (*Opting out of Secondary Math 3 for Applied or
Advanced courses requires parent approval.)
Science - Courses from two of the four Foundation Course
areas (Earth, Biological, Physics, Chemistry) plus one
additional course from the Foundation Courses or Applied or
Advanced list,
Foundation Courses
Earth Systems
Chemistry
AP Environmental
AP Chemistry
Science
Chemistry with Lab
Chemistry with Lab CE
Biology
Physics
Human Biology
Physics with Technology
Biology-Ag Science
AP Physics
Tech (BAST)
Physics with Lab CE
AP Biology
AP Biology CE
Human Biology CE
Social Studies
Geography for Life (9th)
World Civilizations (10th)
Unites States History II (11th)
US Government & Citizenship (required in 12th)
3
1.5
Art History
Dance
Theatre (Drama) Music
Computer Technology
.5
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
(Courses are offered at your school and at the Granite
Technical Institute – GTI)
1
CTE Program Areas
Agriculture
Business
Family and Consumer Science
Health Science
Financial Literacy
.5
Electives
8
General Financial Literacy
Personal Finance CE (Finance 1050)
Adult Roles/Financial Responsibility (full year)
**Mathematics of Personal Finance
World Languages, Driver Education, Special Education
Work/Service Experience, ESL, and additional courses that support your
talents, interests, and abilities selected from the required areas.
Economics and Entrepreneurship
Information Technology
Marketing
Skilled and Technical Science
Technology and Engineering
Sample 4-Year CCR-Plan
(College and Career Readiness Plan)
Required Areas
Credits
9th Grade
10th Grade
ENGLISH/LANGUAGE
ARTS
4.0
English 9
English 10
Secondary Math 1
Secondary Math 2
MATH
3.0
SCIENCE
3.0
Earth Systems or
Biology
Biology or Chemistry
or Physics
SOCIAL STUDIES
3.5
Geography for Life
World Civilizations
CAREER & TECHNICAL
EDUCATION (CTE)
1.0
COMPUTER
TECHNOLOGY
.50
FINE ARTS
(Art, Music,
Dance, Drama)
1.5
GENERAL FINANCE
LITERACY
.50
HEALTH
.50
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
1.5
ELECTIVES
8.0
Graduation
Requirements
27
CR
11th grade
12th grade
English 12 or
Applied or
Advanced
Pre-Calculus,
Secondary Math 3
Calculus,
Concurrent, other
1.0 credit Applied or Advanced Science
(student’s choice)
US Gov. &
United States
Citizenship
History
(0.5 credit)
English 11
Interest and career related courses taken at your high school or at the
Granite Technical Institute (GTI)
Computer Technology 9th or 10th Grade
------
------
1.5 credits to be completed during grades 9–12
0.5 credit to be completed during grades 9-12
0..5 credit to be completed during grades 9-12
PE 9
(0.5 credit)
Fitness for Life
(0.5 credit)
0.5 credit in grades 11 or 12
Student’s choice based on interests, abilities, and talents and may include: additional
courses offered in required areas; CTE/GTI, Fine Arts, World Languages, Driver Education,
Special Education, and ESL courses; and Work/Service Experience, etc.
As you plan choose courses that will:
• Complete high school graduation requirements
• Connect to your goals and plans for the future
• Prepare you for 1, 2, or 4 years of education and
training after high school
• Help you meet college and university admissions
requirements
• Lead to Centennial, Regent’s, and/or New Century
Scholarships
2.0 Cumulative CPA
Keep in mind:
• Courses cannot be repeated for credit.
• There are other ways to earn high school credit
outside of the school day demonstrated competency
assessments in core areas, courses through
Connection HS or Utah Electronic High School;
concurrent enrollment courses taken at your school
or at a college or university.
11
4-Year High School CCR-Plan Worksheet
Get out a pencil and create a four year CCR-Plan for graduation!
Required Areas
Credits
ENGLISH/LANGUAGE
ARTS
4.0
MATH
SCIENCE
SOCIAL STUDIES
CAREER AND TECHNICAL
EDUCATION (CTE)
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th grade
12th grade
English 9
English 10
English 11
Applied or Advanced
Secondary Math 3
(Other math courses
only if student/parent
complete opt out
form)
Pre-Calculus, Calculus,
Concurrent, other
Secondary Math 1
Secondary Math 2
Earth Systems or
Biology
Biology or Chemistry or
Physics
Geography for Life
World Civilizations
3.0
3.0
3.5
1.0
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
.5
FINE ARTS (ART, MUSIC,
DANCE, DRAMA)
1.5
GENERAL FINANCIAL
LITERACY
.5
HEALTH
.5
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)
1.5
ELECTIVES
(Student’s choice based on
interests, abilities and may
include: CTE/GTI, Fine Arts,
World Languages, Driver
Education, Special
Education, ESL,
Work/Service Experience,
etc.)
8.0
Total
27.0
1.0 Applied or Advanced (Student’s Choice)
United States History
US Gov. & Citizenship
(1/2 year)
CTE courses are offered at your school and at the Granite Technical Institute (GTI) in the following
areas: Agriculture, Business, Family and Consumer Science, Health Science and Technology, Marketing,
Skilled and Technical Science, Technology and Engineering
Computer Technology 9th or 10th Grade
---------------
-----------
----------------
Financial Literacy (.5) 11th or 12th Grade
---------------
Health (.5) 10th, 11th, or 12th Grade
---------------
PE Fitness for Life (.5)
-----------------
-----------------------------7.0 or 8.0 Credits
8.0 Credits
8.0 Credits
8.0 Credits
Options and Opportunities
There is so much to consider as you plan! Think about your goals –
goals that you are working toward right now in school and goals you
have for the future. Then think about all of the classes, programs, and
options that can enhance and maximize your school schedule.
Consider taking honors and gifted courses, early college, CTE courses,
flexible learning options, and college and career readiness courses.
Develop a written plan that includes just what you want and need to
be successful, to stay focused and to stay interested in school. When
you are focused and take advantage of all of the options and
opportunities out there, you will move along the pathway toward high
school graduation better prepared for college and career.
What will you include?
Honors and Gifted Courses
Students can take honors and/or gifted courses in core areas beginning in 7th grade.
Students may choose to take honors courses, but gifted students will be identified through
testing.
Early College
Advanced Placement (AP)
Centennial Scholarship
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Concurrent Enrollment
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
CTE Courses and Programs
Granite Technical Institute (GTI)
Work Based Learning (Job Shadow, Internship)
Flexible Learning
Connection High School
Electronic High School (EHS)
Demonstrated Competency Assessment (DCA)
Other Options
Utah Scholars Curriculum
New Century Scholarships
Regent’s Scholarship
Military
13
Early College Options
Early college means that
you can earn college
credit while you are in
high school before
stepping onto a college
campus. Early college
opportunities include:
Advanced Placement (AP)
http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/courses/index.html
AP offers secondary students the opportunity to take
college-level courses while attending high school. All
students are eligible to take AP courses but keep in
mind that they are rigorous. AP courses require
significant study time outside of the school day.
AP classes can give you a sense of what college will be
like. In fact, a recent U.S. Department of Education
study shows that participation and success in AP and
other challenging high school courses is one of the
strongest predictors of college success.
•
•
AP requires a strong curiosity about the AP
subject you plan to study and a willingness to
work hard.
AP gives you an early start on college, tuition
savings, enriching academic experience,
increased access to higher education and 37
possible courses and exams across 22 subject
areas.
AP course offerings vary from school to school. Your
school counselor will have information on AP courses
offered at your high school. You can earn college credit
for AP courses by passing the exam at the end of the
course with a score of 3 or higher. There is a fee for
each AP course you take and fee waivers are available.
Check with the college you plan to attend to determine
how much credit you will receive by passing an AP
course.
Concurrent Enrollment
www.slcc.edu/concurrentenrollment
Concurrent enrollment is a college course taught on a
high school campus by teachers who qualify to teach
them. Concurrent enrollment courses give students
both college and high school credit.
Most concurrent enrollment students in Granite District
are seniors and juniors and earn concurrent enrollment
college credit from Salt Lake Community College (SLCC).
Credits are recorded on both a permanent college
transcript and the high school transcript. Both CTE and
general education classes may be offered for
concurrent enrollment credit. Concurrent enrollment
courses taught at the high school are the same courses
taught on the college campus. Ask your counselor about
concurrent enrollment courses offered at your school.
http://www.slcc.edu/concurrentenrollment/
The state legislature allocates concurrent
enrollment funds so that CE classes at high
schools and a few selected summer and
evening classes on the college campus are
offered to students at a cost of $5 per credit
hour ($15 for a 3 credit hour class and $20
for a 4 credit hour class). SLCC concurrent
enrollment students also pay a one-time
admission application fee of $40.
Students who choose to come to the SLCC
campus as Early Enrollment students must
pay full tuition and fees. (A standard 3-credit
hour class, for a Utah resident, such as
English 1010 would cost approximately $431
at SLCC plus textbooks).
Concurrent enrollment offerings vary from school to
school. Check with your counselor to find out which
courses are available at your school or visit the Salt Lake
Community College Concurrent Enrollment website at
www.slcc.edu/concurrentenrollment and click on
“Courses at High Schools”.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
www.ibo.org
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program offered in
Granite School District is located at Skyline High School.
If you are at least in 9th grade and you have what it
takes to begin college work before you graduate from
high school, then IB may be for you! Contact Skyline
High School IB program @ 801-646-5420.
CTE Options
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Granite Technical Institute (GTI)
http://www.graniteschools.org/cte/
http://mzervos.graniteschoolssites.net/
CTE courses develop your academic and technical skills
in areas of high demand in the workforce. CTE courses
provide career exploration, work-based learning, and
pathways leading directly to college and career. You can
take CTE courses at your home high school, another
high school or at the Granite Technical Institute (GTI).
The GTI is located at the Granite Education Center (GEC)
on 2500 South State Street. Over 3000 students, grades
9-12, travel from their home high schools to attend CTE
classes there. GTI students enjoy a college-like
atmosphere and have access to unique classes that are
hands on, career focused, and offer concurrent college
credit! The GTI is a great place to take a CTE course
away from your home high school.
How are CTE classes different from other classes?
CTE courses are held in non-traditional classrooms like
labs and in industry-type settings. CTE classrooms look
like the workplace and give students real-life learning
experiences. For example: auto tech students work in a
school’s auto shop; dental assisting or CNA students
spend time in classrooms that look like dental or
medical offices; students in foods courses meet in
kitchen labs; and, students in construction trades
attend class at a building site.
CTE is all about getting hands-on training. The best way
to understand CTE courses is to see their classrooms.
When you see what’s happening in CTE courses,
excitement sets in! By taking a CTE class and passing
the assessment at the end, students can earn a Skills
Certificate that may be helpful in getting a job.
CTE Program Areas
Agriculture and Animal Science
Business
Economics and Entrepreneurship
Family and Consumer Science
Health Science
Information Technology
Marketing
Skilled and Technical
Technology and Engineering
All CTE program areas have student organizations called
CTSOs (Career and Technical Student Organizations)
that focus on leadership development and skill
competition. Students can be involved in CTE in the
classroom and in after-school extracurricular activities
through CTSOs.
Highlights of the GTI are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Classes are linked to skill development in high
demand industries.
Classes align with college programs and
certificates.
Concurrent enrollment college credit is
awarded for many of the course offerings.
Classes are supported by business and industry
partners.
Academy programs are available in many areas,
including Engineering and Information
Technology.
Students attend class with students from other
schools in Granite District.
Participation in student organizations (CTSOs) is
emphasized.
Program areas include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Agriculture and Animal Science
Aviation
Barbering and Cosmetology
Biotechnology
Biomanufacturing
Construction Trades
Electronics
Engineering Technology
Health Science (CNA, Medical Assisting, Dental
Assisting, EMT)
• Information Technology
• ProStart/Culinary Arts/Restaurant Management
• Pharmacy Technician
Your counselor or career center coordinator can help
you enroll.
15
More CTE Options
Work-Based Learning (Internship, Job
Shadow, and Work Experience)
Your school has a work-based learning specialist you
can talk to about getting some hands-on experience in a
career field of interest. This can happen through an
internship, a job shadow, going to a seminar, or through
paid employment. Work-based learning, paid or
volunteer, year round or summer, can help you identify
career interests and goals, gain valuable experience,
and apply classroom learning in a workplace.
Internship
An internship is working on special assignment to learn
about a career of interest, a particular occupation, and
to practice skills learned in the classroom in the same
field. Internships can be paid or volunteer. Some last
for a summer while others continue through the school
year. You may think internships are for college
students, but they are for high school students, too
A high school internship can open the doors to the
working world and show you what it's like to have a
boss, attend meetings, and meet deadlines. Internships
also introduce you to experienced people who can help
guide you toward a career.
Work Experience
Working during high school can be a positive learning
experience. It can provide opportunities for students
to:
• Explore an occupation in order to make a better
career choice
• Develop the basic skills required of a person
entering that career
• Learn what is expected of a worker by way of
good work habits and attitudes
• Gain understanding and experience working in
the world of work
Students can earn up to 1.0 elective credit for work
experience that can be verified by an employer with
evidence of hours worked (pay stub, W-2 form, etc.)
and approved by a school counselor. This work credit is
generally for students who have summer jobs that are
not related to classes in school or CCR-Plans. Students
must have evidence of at least 180 work experience
hours to receive 1.0 elective credit.
Job Shadow
A job shadow is spending time with a worker on the job,
to observe actual workplace tasks and to explore a
potential career interest. A job shadow may last a few
hours or a few days. Talk to your school work-based
learning coordinator, counselor or career center
coordinator for more information about internships and
job shadows.
Notes:
16
Flexible Learning Options
Connection High School
www.connectionhighschool.org
Connection High is new! It is an individualized learning
high school for students who have educational needs
beyond or in addition to those met by Granite District’s
traditional schools. It is staffed by an administrative
team, specialized counselors, CTE, technology and
work-based leaning staff with flexible, adaptable and
student-centered teachers. It has state-of-the-art
technology and operates on an extended year schedule
with flexible hours.
Students can attend Connection High and their home
school at the same time, or they can enroll and attend
Connection High as their home school. Students and
their parents will need to meet with a school counselor
to decide on the best flexible learning option based on
their needs and goals. Counselors will facilitate the
registration process for Connection High – they will
make it happen for students!
Connection High students can choose from face-to-face
or online learning options. Every course is taught by a
highly qualified Granite School District teacher. An
individual learning lab is in place to support students
who take online courses. Students will receive a letter
grade and credit is awarded on the high school
transcript when they complete the course.
Face-to- Face Courses are traditional blocked courses
where students attend class during a designated period
of time for a specific subject on-site at Connection High.
A wide variety of courses meeting graduation
requirements are available.
Online Learning Courses will be offered as
asynchronous. That means they will be open-entry
open-exit and must be completed by the end of the
current school year.
English 9, 10, 11, 12
Computer Technology
Secondary Math 1, 2
General Financial Literacy
Astronomy
Driver’s Education
Biology
Drawing 1, 2
Earth Systems
Wildlife Biology
Geography for Life
AP Human Geography
World Civilization
U. S. History
U.S. Government and Citizenship
Health
Fitness for Life
9th Grade PE
Electronic High School (EHS)
http://www.schools.utah.gov/ehs/
EHS is another flexible learning option. Students enroll
in EHS classes to get ahead when they don’t have room
during the day to take a class or when they have failed a
class and need credit recovery. All classes generate
letter grades and credit that are added to the student's
transcript upon completion of a course.
EHS offers an open-entry / open-exit curriculum based
on the Utah Core Curriculum. With a few exceptions,
students are able to enroll any day of the year and work
at their own pace until the class is completed.
EHS is accredited by the Northwest Association of
Accredited Schools. Students who complete courses
from the EHS will have a course completion certificate
mailed to their local school of residence with the grade
and credit earned.
At the end of each class, students must take and pass a
proctored exam at a Utah school, library, or testing
center. More information about the testing process is
available once you are enrolled in classes.
17
Is Online Learning for You?
Survey for Students Considering Online Learning
Please choose your best response to each statement below. When you are finished, total your points to see if Online Learning is a
good choice for you. Talk with your school counselor and your parents about your results.
1.
I am motivated to take online coursework because:
a. I want to improve my educational
experience.
b. I am looking for something different than
traditional school options.
c. I think online courses are easier than
traditional classes.
2.
Having face-to-face interaction with my teachers is:
a. Not particularly important to me
b. Somewhat important to me
c. Very important to me
3.
I would classify myself as someone who:
a. Often gets things done ahead of time
b. Needs reminding to get things done
c. Puts things off until the last minute
4.
Online coursework:
a. Requires as much, if not more, effort than
in a traditional classroom
b. Requires less work than in a traditional
classroom
c. Is self-paced
5.
When a teacher gives instructions for an assignment,
I prefer to:
a. Work through the instructions myself
b. Follow the instructions on my own, then ask
for help as needed
c. Have the instructions explained to me
6.
7.
I need teachers to constantly remind me of due
dates and assignments:
a. Rarely
b. Sometimes
c. Often
Considering my personal schedule, the amount of
time I have to work online is:
a. More than in a traditional course
b. The same as in a traditional course
c. Less than in a traditional course
8.
When I am asked to use email, computers, or other
new technologies:
a. I look forward to learning new skills
b. I feel apprehensive, but try anyway
c. I put it off or try to avoid it
9.
As a reader, I would classify myself as:
a. Good, I usually understand the text without
help.
b. Average, I sometimes need help to
understand the text.
c. Below average, I often need help to
understand the text.
10. I intend to login to my online courses and check my
messages:
a. Daily or almost daily
b. 2-3 times a week
c. Whenever I think I need to.
Total your survey points: ___________________
a=10
b=7
c=1
80 points or
higher
You may be an excellent candidate for
Online Learning.
79-60 points
Online coursework may work for you,
but you will need to make significant
adjustments in your schedule and study
habits to succeed.
Online coursework is most likely not the
best alternative for you.
Less than 60
points
18
Demonstrated Competence Assessment (DCA)
Did you know you can “test out” of
classes?
Granite School District gives students the opportunity to
earn high school credit (required or elective credit) by
demonstrating competence through an assessment
(DCA) instead of taking the class in school. DCA is
another flexible way of earning credit toward
graduation. Students can take a DCA in identified
subject areas and receive .5 or 1.0 units of credit. DCAs
are available to all secondary students – tests are taken
at the Connection High by appointment. It’s best to
schedule to take a DCA when you are prepared with the
knowledge and skills you would otherwise get through
classroom instruction. Students may take a DCA in
Granite School District in any of the following subject
areas:
Geography for Life
U.S. Government and Citizenship
Earth Systems
Biology
General Financial Literacy
PE Participation Skills and Techniques
Computer Technology
Fitness for Life
English Language Arts 9-11
World Civilizations
Secondary Math 1, 2, 3
U.S. History II (being drafted)
Health
World Language (Spanish, French, Chinese,
Japanese, Italian, German)
High School Learning Options
Early College
Advanced Placement
International Baccalaureate
Concurrent Enrollment
Centennial Scholarship
Career and Technical Education
CTE Courses
Granite Technical Institute
Work-Based Learning
Flexible Learning Options
Connection High School
Electronic High School
Demonstrated Competency Assessment
What early
college and
flexible
learning
options will
you include
in your 4-year CCR PLAN?
9th
Grade
10th
Grade
If interested, your school counselor will help you
complete a Student Application for Demonstrated
Competence Assessment. The application requires your
school counselor’s signature as approval to take the
assessment. Call the Granite School District Testing
Center (385) 646-6042 to schedule a day and time to
test.
All classes
at my
school
Online PE
Fitness
during the
summer
Note: The National Collegiate Athletic Association
DCA
Biology
Online
Financial
Literacy
during the
summer
(NCAA) does not recognize courses completed through
credit-by-exam. Demonstrated Competency
Assessments cannot be used to meet NCAA eligibility or
Regents’ Scholarship eligibility.
11th
Grade
Concurrent
Enrollment
Introduction
to Art 1010
12th
Grade
AP English
AP
Chemistry
Other options . . . . .
Online US
History during
the school
year
Online
American
Government
during the
school year
CCR Possibilities for Utah Students
Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) – Board of Regents
http://www.higheredutah.org/
USHE and the Board of Regents oversee all of the public colleges and universities in the state. They want all Granite
School District students to prepare for education and training after high school and attend one of our state institutions.
They provide great resources to our schools to help students be college and career ready:
• Utah Scholars Curriculum
• Regents’ Scholarship
• New Century Scholarship
• Centennial Scholarship
Utah Scholar’s Initiative
www.utahscholars.org
Utah Scholars inspires and motivates students to complete a core course of study in high school that prepares them to
be ready for college and career. Local business, community, and education leaders deliver Utah Scholars classroom
presentations to 8th grade students to promote completion of the Utah Scholars Curriculum and to explain the benefits
of preparing early for the future.
The Utah Scholars Curriculum goes beyond the state’s current graduation requirements but leaves room in a school
schedule for elective classes. The requirements to be a Utah Scholar must be completed during grades 9-12 by high
school graduation. When students follow the Utah Scholars Curriculum they are prepared to apply for the Regents’
Scholarship. It is a scholarship award that is for all students who meet the requirements.
Regents’ Scholarship
www.regentsscholarship.org
The Regents’ Scholarship is a voluntary statewide scholarship aligned with the Utah Scholars Curriculum. The courses
required by the scholarship are proven to help student become college and career ready. All of the requirements for the
Regents’ Scholarship must be completed during grades 9-12 by high school graduation. Students apply for the Regents’
Scholarship by February 1 of their senior year with the priority deadline date, December 11, 2015. The scholarship may
be used at any public college or university in the Utah System of Higher Education as well as at Brigham Young
University-Provo, LDS Business College, and Westminster College. The amount of the scholarship is determined on an
annual basis by the Utah State Legislature. All students who meet the requirements need to apply!
20
Base Award – up to $1,000, one time
•
•
•
•
Complete the required courses
Earn a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA
Earn no grade lower than a "C" in the required courses (AP/IB/CE courses are weighted)
Submit at least one ACT test score
Exemplary Award – up to $1,250, renewable for up to four semesters
In order to qualify for the Exemplary Academic Achievement Award, you must qualify for the Base Award, in addition to
meeting the following requirements:
• Earn a 3.5 cumulative high school GPA
• Earn no grade lower than a "B" in the required courses (AP/IB/CE courses
are weighted)
• Submit an ACT score of 26
Students who earn this award must renew it each semester while in college, maintain a 3.3 semester GPA and enroll in
15 credits. The Exemplary Award can be renewed for four semesters, 65 credits, or completion of a bachelor's degree,
whichever is shortest.
UESP Award – up to $400 matching funds, one time
To be considered for the Utah Educational Savings Plan (UESP) Supplemental Award, you must qualify for the Base
Award, in addition to meeting the following requirements:
• Have a UESP account in your name
• For each year during the ages of 14-17 that at least $100 is contributed to your UESP account, you can earn a
matching UESP Supplemental Award of $100
• To earn the maximum UESP Supplemental Award of $400, contribute at least $100 per year for four years to
your UESP account when you are 14, 15, 16, and 17 years old
The UESP Supplemental Award is added to your total Regents' Scholarship; it is not deposited into your UESP account.
Visit www.uesp.org for more information regarding the Utah Educational Savings Plan.
The Regents’ Scholarship award amounts are determined on an
annual basis and are subject to legislative funding and the total
number of qualified participants. Therefore, award amounts may
be reduced, may vary from year to year, and are dependent on
when the recipient is enrolled in college. Award amounts are
determined in April of each year and will be posted on
www.regentsscholarship.org
Award amounts for
students who
qualified 2014-2015
COLLEGES WHERE REGENTS’ SCHOLARSHIP CAN BE USED
21
New Century Scholarship
www.newcenturyscholarship.org
The New Century Scholarship is awarded to students who accelerate their education by
earning an associate’s degree while in high school. Students can earn an associate’s
degree by taking concurrent enrollment classes at their high school and/or on a college
campus. Most Granite School District students working toward the New Century
Scholarship earn their associate’s degree through Salt Lake Community College (SLCC).
The scholarship may be used at a 4-year public college or university in Utah including
Brigham Young University-Provo and Westminster College.
The scholarship award is a flat dollar amount; the maximum amount a recipient may
receive is $1,250 per semester, renewable for up to 60 credits or four semesters
(whichever occurs first). Award amounts are announced each April for the upcoming
academic year on www.newcenturyscholarship.org.
Award amounts are determined on an annual basis and are subject to legislative funding
and the total number of qualified participants. Therefore, award amounts may be
reduced, may vary from year to year, and are dependent on when the recipient is enrolled
in college.
Centennial Scholarship for
Early Graduation
http://schools.utah.gov/CURR/earlycollege/Scholarships/Centennial.aspx
Did you know that students can graduate early from high school? Early graduation allows for flexible graduation any
time before the end of the senior year; but, it also requires careful planning and written documentation of your
intentions in your CCR-Plan as early as 9th grade. If early graduation from high school is one of your goals and
documented in your CCR-Plan and, you are planning to enroll in college early, then you may be eligible for the
Centennial Scholarship. Your counselor can help you plan for early graduation and outline the requirements for the
scholarship.
The Centennial Scholarship provides partial tuition to students who meet the criteria for early graduation. Eligibility is
outlined in the Utah State Office of Education Administrative Rules: Any public school student who has (1) a CCR-Plan on
file, (2) has indicated to the secondary school principal/counselor the intent to complete early graduation, (3) has
completed all required courses or demonstrated mastery of required skills and competencies, and (4) has graduated from
a Utah public high school is eligible to apply for early graduation and qualify for a tuition waiver called the Centennial
Scholarship.
To get the Centennial Scholarship funds, a student must
graduate early from a Utah secondary school, complete the
Centennial Scholarship application and enroll within one
calendar year in an eligible Utah college or university. The
scholarship funds cover some of the tuition for full-time early
college students. The funds can only be used within one
calendar year of early graduation.
Centennial Scholarship Award Amounts
$1,000.00
$750.00
$500.00
$250.00
Early Graduation at the end of the
junior year
Early Graduation at the end of the first
quarter of the senior year
Early Graduation at the end of the
second quarter of the senior year
Early Graduation at the end of the third
quarter of the senior year
22
College and Career Readiness Assessments
ACT College and Career Readiness System
www.act.org
The Utah State Legislature currently funds three of ACT’s assessments: Explore for 8th grade students, Plan for 10th grade
students and the ACT for 11th grade students.
ACT Explore
Taking ACT Explore in the fall of 8th grade will give you information to help you plan your high school courses, prepare
for the ACT Test, think about college, and choose a career direction. ACT Explore includes four multiple-choice tests:
English, Math, Reading, and Science. Your skills in these subjects will make a big difference in school. Your ACT Explore
score report will help identify your strengths and areas where you need improvement.
ACT Plan
Taking ACT Plan as a 10th grader is a great way to practice for the ACT Test and it helps you get ready to succeed in
college and beyond! ACT Plan includes four multiple-choice tests: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Your skills in
these subjects will make a big difference—in school and, eventually, in your career. Your ACT Plan score report will help
identify your strengths and areas where you need improvement. You will take ACT Plan in the fall of 10th grade.
ACT
The ACT (originally an abbreviation of American College Testing)
college readiness assessment is a standardized test for high school
achievement and college admissions in the United States produced
by ACT. All 11th grade students take the ACT in March of each
school year at no cost. The ACT is also offered in October,
December, February, April, and June and is always on a Saturday.
You may choose either the ACT assessment ($38), or the ACT
assessment plus writing ($54.50). Students with verifiable
disabilities, including physical and learning disabilities, are eligible
to take the test with accommodations. The standard time increase
for students requiring additional time due to disabilities is 50%.
Scores are sent to the student, his or her high school, and up to
four colleges
College Board Assessments
www.collegeboard.org
PSAT
Students in 11th grade can take the PSAT/NMSQT for the first time in October of each school year. The test cost $15.
Schools can request fee waivers for eligible 11th-grade students taking the PSAT/NMSQT. The PSAT/NMSQT is the
official route of entry to the National Merit® Scholarship Program.
SAT
The SAT is the nation’s most widely used college admission test. Used in combination with high school GPA, SAT scores
are the best predictors of a student’s potential to succeed in college. Most students take the SAT during their junior or
senior year in high school. At least half of all students take the SAT twice — in the spring of their junior year and in the
fall of their senior year. Most students also improve their score the second time around. SAT fee waivers are available to
students who need them. In addition, every student who takes the SAT with a fee waiver will, as a senior, receive four
college application fee waivers directly from the College Board. Seniors will access these waivers through their
23
online College Board account.
Utah’s Colleges and Universities
Types of Colleges and Universities
From engineering to zoology, Utah’s colleges and universities, public and private, offer a wide variety of programs and
majors to meet the needs and interests of any student.
Research-Based Universities University of Utah (U of U) is Utah’s flagship research university. Utah State University
(USU) also performs extensive research as the state’s land-grant university.
Regional Universities and Colleges are institutions such as Weber State University (WSU), Southern Utah University
(SUU), Dixie State College of Utah (DSC), and Utah Valley University (UVU) perform both a community college and
a 4-year college function primarily in the region they are located. Some schools also offer master’s degrees.
Community Colleges are 2-year public institutions that grant certificates, diplomas, and associate’s degrees – Salt Lake
Community College, Snow College, USU Eastern and some four-year institutions that provide community college services
across the state.
Private Universities and Colleges like Brigham Young University, Westminster College, and LDS Business College are
private, non-profit institutions that grant certificates, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees, as well as several master’s and
doctorate degrees.
Applied Technology Colleges such as the Utah College of Applied Technology emphasizes preparation for specific skills
or careers. Certificates are designed to take students right to work. Some programs transfer to other colleges or
universities.
Types of Degrees
Certificates
Awarded by community or technical colleges for
program completion related to a specific job or business
such as bookkeeping, pipefitting, or diesel mechanics
Associate’s
Awarded by community colleges and some 4-year
colleges upon completion of a program of study usually
takes two years such as nursing
Bachelor’s
Awarded by colleges and universities for a major that
generally takes four years such as finance, education, or
political science
Master’s or professional
Offered at a postgraduate level (usually after earning a
bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience)
occupations include medicine, law, education,
engineering, business, etc.
Doctorate
Provides further training in a more specialized area in
occupations similar to masters or professional degrees
24
Paying for College - Financial Aid
Financing your college education will be the most rewarding
investment you will make in your lifetime - one that
requires informed and careful consideration of various
financial aid options.
What is Financial Aid?
Financial aid is any type of assistance ($$) based on financial
need used to pay college costs. You can get information on
Federal Student Financial Aid at http://studentaid.ed.gov/.
Most financial aid comes in three forms:
Grants: Also called gift aid, grants don’t have to be repaid,
and you don’t need to work to earn them. Grant aid comes from federal and state governments and from individual
colleges. The most familiar grant is the Pell Grant.
Loans: Financial aid that comes in the form of loans must be repaid. Most need-based loans are low-interest loans
sponsored by the federal government. These loans are subsidized by the government which means no interest accrues
until you begin repayment after graduation.
Work Study: Student employment or work-study aid helps pay for education costs like books, supplies, and personal
expenses. Work-study is a federal program that provides part-time employment on a college campus to help meet
financial needs.
Many students finance their college education through a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study programs and
loans. It is a good idea to have a basic understanding of each. It is highly recommended that you use any financial aid
that you receive only to pay for necessary educational expenses.
As college costs continue to rise, figuring out how you and your family will finance
your education may seem pretty overwhelming. The good news is that there is an
estimated $250 billion in available financial aid. Knowing what’s available and how to
tap into it will make your planning a lot easier.How do
I apply for Financial Aid?
www.fafsa.gov
Most financial aid is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA application become available in January of the year
a student plans on attending college. It must be completed each year to determine
financial status and award. Families can access a worksheet in October of each yea
to help gather the financial information necessary to complete the FAFSA at
www.fafsa.gov.
Each FAFSA is examined by a federal processor and the results are sent by computer
to the financial aid offices of the colleges you’ve chosen. The FAFSA is the
application most colleges use to determine eligibility for federal, state, and collegesponsored financial aid, including grants, educational loans, and work-study programs.
Remember that the
FAFSA (www.fafsa.ed.gov)
Is FREE!
If you need help, talk to
your school counselor, a
college financial aid office,
or call the
FAFSA Help Desk
1-800-4-FED-AID or
www.fafsa.gov
25
Eligibility
Nearly every student is eligible for some form of financial aid, including low-interest Federal Stafford and/or parent PLUS
loans, regardless of income or circumstances, provided that you:
• Are a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or an eligible non-citizen
• Have a valid Social Security Number
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Are registered with the U.S. Selective Service (if you are a male ages 18 to 25)
• Complete a FAFSA promising to use any federal aid for educational purposes
• Do not owe refunds on any federal student grants
• Are not in default on any student loans
• Have not been found guilty of the sale or possession of illegal drugs during a period when you received
Federal student aid
Applying for Aid - FAFSA Is the First Step!
To be considered for federal financial aid, you must submit a completed FAFSA on time. Additionally, most states,
colleges and universities use the FAFSA to award other types of aid, including state-and-college-sponsored financial aid
such as grants, loans, and work-study programs. Besides the FAFSA, some states and colleges require that you file other
applications for aid. Check with your college’s financial aid administrator for any state or college-specific requirements.
Deadlines
You can file your FAFSA with the Department of Education beginning in January. You can also complete your FAFSA in
the fall prior using our FAFSAFirst™ service. We will then submit it to the federal processor for you in early January.
Federal aid is limited and much of it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you file the better your
chances of accessing the most financial aid possible.
Many states, colleges, and universities have filing deadlines as early as the first weeks in January. Pay close attention to
how colleges word their deadline instructions. Some refer to the date by which your FAFSA must be submitted – the
Transaction Receipt Date – while others refer to the date your completed aid application must be sent by the federal
processor to a college’s financial aid office. Missing deadlines can ruin your opportunity for financial aid. You should
check with your colleges’ financial aid administrators to learn each college’s exact FAFSA deadline. Filing as close to
January 1 as possible is highly recommended.
26
Paying for College - Scholarships
Where to start?
Scholarships are a form of financial aid that does not
have to be repaid. Scholarships usually refer to cash or
tuition waiver awards based on academic merit, talents
and abilities, community service, and more. The place
to start a scholarship search is with the college or
university’s website. Each college typically offers the
following types of scholarships:
• Merit (ACT/GPA)
• Departmental
• Leadership
• Diversity
• Talent (athletic/dance/music/art)
• Need based
Many colleges have alumni-sponsored scholarships and
other miscellaneous scholarships. For a complete listing
of the scholarships for each college check out their
websites. Most colleges have separate links to their
own financial aid and/or scholarship information.
Your best tool is the Internet!
Finding a scholarship match for your accomplishments,
interests, special needs, talents, etc. is time consuming
and ongoing through the year. Use the Internet tools
identified by your school counselor. After you FIND
scholarships that fit your circumstances, APPLY! Watch
Deadlines.
• Fastweb.com
• Tuitionfundingsources.com
• AIE.org
• Weeklyscholrshipalert.com
• Scholarships.com
• Students.gov
• Scholarships101.com
Scholarship Notes
Where else do I look?
Your high school’s website also has information about
scholarships. Some high schools have specific
scholarships just for their students. Check in the
counseling or career center of your high school for more
information. Students also find scholarships locally.
Consider the following sources:
• Clubs
• Businesses
• Employers
• Civic Groups
• State Groups
• Professional Organizations
• Ethnic Groups
• Private Charities
• Private Foundations
• Banks
• Credit Unions
• Religious Organizations
Beware of scams!
Not all scholarship and financial aid tools are legitimate.
There are a few organizations out there that will ask you
for money and promise you all kinds of scholarships and
money for college. Don’t trust them at all. Any
information you need about scholarships and financial
aid is FREE! You don’t need to pay for anything more
than a postage stamp and that is rare because most
scholarship and financial aid applications are completed
online.
27
Centennial Scholarship for Early Graduation
www.schools.utah.gov/CURR/earlycollege/Scholarships/Centennial.aspx
Tuition waiver for instate schools
Student meets graduation requirements before the end of their senior year.
New Century Scholarship
www.newcenturyscholarship.org
Tuition waiver for instate schools
Student completes an associate’s degree (approximately 60 credit hours) by their high school graduation date.
Regents’ Scholarship
www.regentsscholarship.org
Tuition waiver for in-state schools
Student must complete the Utah Scholars Curriculum as determined by the Utah State Board of Regents.
Student must fulfill all components, apply, and graduate on time in order to qualify.
T.H. Bell Teaching Incentive Loan Program
www.schools.utah.gov/cert/Loans-and-Scholarships.aspx
Tuition waiver for in-state colleges based on GPA, ACT or SAT scores, ethnicity, intended teaching field, teachingrelated experience, and an explanatory paragraph. Students must agree and complete the following criteria: complete
an educator preparation program; obtain an educator license; and, teach in a Utah public school for a period equal to
the time the student received assistance.
Utah Educational Savings Plan
www.uesp.org
The Utah Educational Savings Plan (UESP) is Utah’s official nonprofit 529 college savings program. Thousands are saving
for future higher education expenses with UESP www.uesp.org. You save what you can, when you can. It’s free to open
a UESP account, and no minimum contributions are required. Families can save a little or a lot according to their own
schedules. You enjoy tax benefits. Earnings on investments in UESP accounts grow tax deferred from federal and Utah
state income taxes. That means you could save more with UESP than with a taxable investment.
28
College-Bound Student-Athletes
NCAA Eligibility
Prospective Student-Athletes Register on-line @ http://eligibilitycenter.org/
College-bound student-athletes preparing to enroll in a Division I or Division II school need to register with the
NCAA Eligibility Center http://eligibilitycenter.org/ to ensure they have met amateurism standards and are
academically prepared for college coursework. Information about registering with NCAA is available at your
high school but students and parents must take responsibility for learning all about NCAA eligibility rules and
requirements. Visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website to get the most accurate information on what studentathletes can plan and prepare to do now to be ready to compete at the collegiate level.
Division I
If You Enroll BEFORE August 1, 2016
To be eligible to practice, compete and receive an athletics
scholarship in your first full-time year at a Division I school,
you must graduate from high school and meet ALL the
following requirements:
1. Complete 16 NCAA core courses:
• Four years of English
• Three years of math (Algebra 1 or higher)
• Two years of natural/physical science (including
one year of lab science if your high school
offers it)
• Two years of social science;
• One additional year of English, math or natural/
physical science
• Four additional years of English, math,
natural/physical science, social science, foreign
language, comparative religion or philosophy.
2. Earn at least a 2.0 GPA in your core courses.
3. Earn an SAT combined score or ACT sum score that
matches your core-course GPA on the Division I
sliding scale.
Division II
If You Enroll BEFORE August 1, 2018
To be eligible to practice, compete and receive an
athletics scholarship in your first full-time year at a
Division II school, you must graduate high school and
meet ALL the following requirements:
1. Complete 16 core courses:
• Three years of English
• Two years of math (Algebra 1 or higher)
• Two years of natural or physical science
(including one year of lab science if your
high school offers it)
• Two years of social science
• Three additional years of English, math or
natural or physical science
• Four additional years of English, math,
natural or physical science, social science,
foreign language, comparative religion or
philosophy.
2. Earn at least a 2.0 GPA in your core courses.
3. Earn an SAT combined score of 820 or an ACT
sum score of 68.
29
College and Career Readiness Checklist
Every Year
 Attend school regularly and take it seriously.
 Work hard and do your best in ALL of your classes,
not just your favorite ones.
Grades 7-8
EXPLORING AND EXPANDING ON YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS
 Use your planner! It is a great tool to track your
assignments, and help you plan ahead for deadlines.
 Do your homework. Homework is practice, and by doing it
you do better in school.
 Learn and develop good study habits so you’ll do better
on tests and get the best grades you can.
 Keep up on reading assignments for all classes, and read
books, magazines, or online articles for fun.
Grade 9
FRESHMAN YEAR
PLANNING TO SUCCEED
 Plan your school schedule with classes that meet
graduation and Regents’ Scholarship requirements, connect
to your interests and abilities, and prepare you for college
and career. Plan with a college goal in mind!
 Work hard for good grades. The grades you earn in 9th
grade will be included in your high school GPA. Your grades
also count toward college admission and scholarships.
 Attend your personal CCR planning meeting.
Grade 10
Sophomore Year
SETTING GOALS TO SUCCEED
 Plan your 10th grade schedule with classes that fill
graduation and Regents’ Scholarship requirements, are
connected to your interests and abilities, and prepare you for
college.
 Know your school counselor and attend your CCR planning
meeting.
 Work hard for good grades. The grades you earn in 10th
grade will be included in your final high school GPA. Grades
also count toward college admission and scholarships.
 Get to know your school counselor and attend your CCR
planning meeting.
 Tell your parents about the things you are doing in school.
 Get involved in sports, music, clubs, or activities at your
school and in your community.
 Think about what kind of career you would like to have
some day and what college preparation you will need for it.
 Talk with adults you know about their careers and what
they like or dislike about them.
 Commit to the Utah Scholars recommended courses for
college and career readiness.
 Learn more about the GTI. Attend the GTI Open House in
February.
 Talk with your parents or guardians about going to college
after high school.
 Participate in Career Day and Reality Town at your school.
 Get involved in school and community activities.
 Talk to your parents about planning for college expenses.
Begin a savings plan for college.
 Tour a nearby college or a college campus. Check out the
dorms, go to the library or student center, and imagine what
you would study and if you could be a student there.
 Find out about summer enrichment programs (GTI
courses, college summer programs, etc.)
 Keep track of your Progress Toward Graduation (PTG).
 Learn about college entrance requirements.
 Take the Plan test (Pre-ACT).
 Check out Career Technical Education (CTE) programs that
interest you at your school or at the GTI.
 Get involved in leadership positions in the activities that
you like best. Get involved in community service and other
volunteer activities.
 Work on your writing skills ─ you’ll need them no matter
what you do.
30
Grade 11
Junior Year
DECIDING TO SUCCEED
FALL
 Attend your CCR planning meeting and review your PTG. Don’t
let requirements for graduation or college admission requirements
slip by. Asses your progress toward the Regents’ Scholarship.
 Take a long, hard look at why you want to continue your
education after high school so you will be able to choose the best
college pathway for your needs.
 Prioritize a list of colleges that meet your most important criteria
(size, location, and distance from home, majors, academic rigor,
housing, and cost).
SPRING
 Take the statewide ACT in March. You can take it again in June
and/or in the fall of your senior year, if necessary.
 Have a discussion with your parents about colleges of interest.
 Set up a filing system with individual folders for each college’s
correspondence and printed materials.
 Plan your school schedule for 11th grade to include classes and
CTE courses that are rigorous and line up with your interests and
personal goals.
 Meet with your counselor to review senior year course options
and graduation requirements.
 Discuss ACT results with your counselor. Register to take it again
to try to improve your score.
 Stay involved with your extracurricular activities. Colleges look
for consistency and depth in activities.
Grade 12
Senior Year
APPLYING TO SUCCEED
FALL
 Plan the details of your future college experience!
 Get good grades. Make sure you are on track to graduate.
 Attend your CCR planning meeting with your counselor and take
your parents along. Don’t let graduation or college admissions
requirements slip by.
 Participate in your school’s college day.
 Complete a college application during College Application Week.
 Continue to participate in extracurricular activities. Demonstrate
initiative, creativity, commitment, and leadership in each.
 Record application deadlines for college admission, financial aid,
and scholarships on your planning calendar.
 Get information on scholarships, cash awards, and grants.
 Re-take the ACT or SAT (or both).
 Complete college applications for early-decision admission by
November 1.
 See your counselor to apply for on-campus summer programs for
high school students. Apply for a summer job or internship. Be
prepared to pay for college application, financial aid, and testing
fees in fall.
 Request applications from schools you’re interested in by mail or
via the Internet.
SUMMER
 Visit the campuses of your top college choices (in person or
online).
 Talk with people you know who have attended the colleges that
interest you.
WINTER
 Attend financial aid and scholarship nights held at your school or
a neighboring school.
 Apply for scholarships and financial aid.
 Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov). FAFSA forms are available January 1.
 Meet with your counselor to verify that transcripts and
recommendation have been sent out to colleges.
SPRING
 Watch your mail and email between March 1 and April 1 for
college admissions notifications.
 Make your final college choice, and notify all schools of your
intent by May 1.
 Complete follow-up paperwork for the college of your choice
(scheduling, orientation session, housing arrangements, and other
necessary forms).
SUMMER
 Congratulations! You are about to begin the greatest adventure
of your life so far. Good luck!
31
College and Career Readiness Terms
24 credit diploma
27 credit diploma
4-year plan
Accredited school
ACT (American College Test)
Admissions Index
Advance Placement (AP)
AP Tests
Apprenticeship
Assessment
Associate’s Degree
ASVAB
Bachelor's Degree
CCR-Plan
(College and Career Readiness Plan)
Career Centers
Career Development
Centennial Scholarship
College – new definition
College Savings Plans
College-Preparatory Classes
A document that certifies a student has completed the core educational requirements plus five
elective credits in order to earn a Granite School District Diploma.
A document that certifies a student has completed the core educational requirements plus eight
elective credits in order to earn a high school diploma with your school’s name on it.
Educational document signed by student and parent mapping out the courses to complete
throughout high school. The classes are tied to student’s college and career goals. This plan is the
focal point of a student's academic guidance.
Certified and approved school.
College admission test that measures English, math, reading, and science reasoning. Scores range
from 1-36 along with a composite score. Students take the ACT for the first time at the end of the
junior year or at the beginning of the senior year. The test can be taken multiple times. It is
required for admission to many colleges and universities.
A combination of GPA and ACT scores that colleges and universities use to grant admission.
College level courses in high school with exams given in each course area that may give students
college credit while in high school. All students are eligible to take AP courses.
Tests given after completion of an AP course. Results are not used for college admissions but may
be used for placement and college credit.
Preparation for a particular trade by learning skills and information both in the classroom and on
the job at the same time.
Measures student's learning for education and career planning.
A two-year degree that prepares you for a specific career or further education. Associate’s of Arts
(AA) or Associate’s of Science (AS) degree is granted after students complete a program of study
similar to the first two years of a four-year college curriculum. The Associate’s of Applied Science
(AAS) is awarded for a two-year technical or vocational program of study.
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) can be taken by all 11th grade students in
Granite District. There is NO obligation to the military for students taking this test. In addition to
traditional tests of academic, verbal, and math skills, it assesses vocational aptitudes and helps
students with career planning.
A degree received after the satisfactory completion of four or five years of full-time study at a
college or university. Sometimes called baccalaureate degrees, they are more often called either
Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees. Policies concerning the awarding of BA
and BS degrees vary from college to college.
CCR-Plan is the educational process in junior high and high school that helps students focus on an
individual plan for school success. The CCR-Plan process helps students realize that every grade
level is very important to school success. One grade impacts the next grade until you graduate
from high school. School counselors are in charge of the CCR-Plan process. The CCR-Plan process
includes a meeting with a school counselor at least once each school year. Parents are invited to
participate.
Career centers provide career and work-based learning activities, career exploration and planning,
registration for CTE and GTI classes, military information, and education opportunities after high
school.
A lifelong process of understanding education and work.
Scholarship for early graduation from high school. It is a partial tuition for high school graduates
beginning at the end of the junior year and at term or semester during the student’s senior year.
An institution of higher learning that offers 1, 2, 4, or more years of education and training after
high school. Students can work toward career and technical education (CTE) certificates,
diplomas, two-year and four-year college degrees, and professional degrees.
Savings options for parents saving for a child's college education. Also known as "529" plans; they
are state-operated investment plans that give families a federal tax-free way to save money for
college. In Utah it is called UESP.
Classes that prepare students for success in college in core academic areas like English,
mathematics, social studies, science, and a foreign language.
Community College
Concurrent Enrollment
Citizenship Point Average
(CPA)
CPA Cumulative
Credit
CTE
Degree
Diploma of Merit
Early Enrollment
Early Admission
Early Graduation
FAFSA
Financial Aid
Freshman
GPA
GPA Cumulative
Graduation
GTI
(Granite Technical Institute)
High School Diploma
High School Terms/Quarter
Honors
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Interest Inventory
Internships
Junior
Master’s Degree
A two-year college that serves the residents of a local or regional area. Most of these colleges
admit all or most of the students who apply. Students receive an associate’s degree after two
years of successful full-time study. Many technical programs at community colleges prepare
students to enter the job market immediately after graduation. Most students who enter general
education programs (equivalent to the first two years of a baccalaureate degree program) transfer
to a four-year college or university, often as juniors.
Enrolled at two or more schools at the same time – two high schools for specific courses, high
school and the GTI, or high school courses and college courses at the same time.
Citizenship point average (CPA) is the average of all the citizenship grades you earn in a grading
period – 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0.
The combined average of all citizenship grades you earn from the beginning of ninth grade. A 2.0
CPA is required for graduation.
Official record of work completed by a student in a particular class or course is awarded in
increments of .25, .50, and 1.0. Students earn .25 credits for each class, each term. Students begin
earning high school credits in the 9th grade and need 27.0 credits to meet graduation
requirements.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes provide specific skill training. Students can take CTE
courses at their high school, at other high schools, and at the GTI (Granite Technical Institute).
An academic title, such as a bachelor's degree (BA), awarded to a student who completes the
required courses at a college or university.
Certifies a student has earned a 27 credit diploma with areas of distinction in selected academic or
elective areas at some high schools.
Admission of high school students (usually juniors) as full-time college students before they
graduate from high school. Some high school juniors can skip their senior year and enroll in
college. This is also known as early admission.
Completing all high school requirements for graduation at the end of the 11th grade or at the end
of any term in 12th grade.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a free financial aid application form used to
determine eligibility for federal financial aid money for college. Applications are accepted after
January 1, of your graduation year.
Money awarded to students to help them pay for education. Aid is given as loans, grants,
scholarships, or work study. Some forms of financial aid need to be repaid after graduation.
9th grade school year
Grade Point Average (GPA) is the average of all the grades you earn in a grading term A = 4.0, B =
3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0
The combined average of all the grades you earn from the beginning of 9th grade. A GPA of 4.0
means all “A” grades.
The successful completion of a school program resulting in a diploma.
Granite Technical Institute (GTI) is located at the Granite Education Center. Students register for
classes there at their high school career center. Certifications are offered in programs including:
Agricultural Science, Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing, Construction Trades, Health Sciences,
Culinary Arts, Cosmetology and Barbering, Engineering, Information Technology, and
Aviation/Professional Pilot Program.
The state of Utah, a school district, or individual school grants recognition to a student who meets
education, citizenship, and experience requirements.
An academic calendar period of about 9 weeks. There are two terms in a semester and four terms
in a school year.
Academically challenging classes offered to all students.
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a program of rigorous courses that prepare students for college.
It is available at Skyline High School.
Assessment that targets personal desires and areas of interest used in career and educational
planning. Students complete interest inventories every school year.
Working to learn about a career of interest, to learn about a particular occupation, and practices
skills learned in the classroom. Internships may or may not include wages. See your school
counselor or work-based learning coordinator for more information.
11th grade school year
An academic degree awarded by a university to students who complete a bachelor’s degree and
continue on to study a specific academic area. It usually requires two or more years beyond a
bachelor’s degree.
Midterm
Occupation
PhD
(Doctor of Philosophy)
PTG
(Progress Toward Graduation)
Qualifications
Quarter
Regents’ Scholarship
Requirement
Resume
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
Scholarship
School Counselor
Semester
Senior
Skill Certificate
Sophomore
Technical School/College
Term
Transcript
Utah Colleges of Applied Technology
(UCAT)
University
Utah Futures
Work Based Learning
Work Experience
A report of learning progress in the middle of each grading term. Teachers give students a
midterm report of their grades. The students can make adjustments to their grades as needed.
Specific duties and responsibilities of work to earn a living.
An advanced degree awarded by universities. In most English-speaking countries, the Ph.D. is the
highest degree a student can earn.
PTG is a high school document that records and tracks student grades and credits throughout high
school. It includes classes, grades, credits, and standardized test scores.
Abilities, skills, talents, diplomas, licenses, training, or accomplishments that make a person
eligible for a job.
The same as a grading term – first quarter, first term, etc.
A scholarship awarded to students for taking academically rigorous courses in high school. It is
designed to encourage Utah high school students to prepare for college academically and
financially by taking a core course of study and saving for college. The scholarship may be used at
any public college or university in the Utah System of Higher Education.
Specific qualification necessary for graduation, placement, etc.
A brief written account of personal, educational, and professional qualifications and experience.
College admissions test which measures your ability in verbal and mathematical reasoning. The
optimal time to take the SAT is between the spring of your junior year and December of your
senior year. Scores range from 200 (low) to 800 (high).
A form of financial aid that does not have to be repaid or earned. Scholarship usually refers to
cash or tuition waiver award based on academic merit. Scholarships are also awarded for special
talents, abilities, community service, diversity, etc.
Every student is assigned a counselor who will advise them on personal and academic issues and
help with course selection and career planning for success in school now and in the future.
Counselors meet with students individually in CCR-Plan meetings and teach and instruct students
in classroom activities. Counselors have offices in the school counseling center.
A half-year point in the school year. Some school classes, like P.E., are only one semester long
(half year).
12th grade school year
An award for successful completion of a particular vocational or technical program (generally one
year, but less than four years of study).
10th grade school year
A school that specializes in teaching particular techniques and skills for job entry preparation.
Programs are usually designed to go right into a career after completing the program. Some
technical colleges offer associate’s degrees that transfer to a four-year university or college.
The school year is divided into four terms. Each term lasts about forty five days. At the end of each
term students get a report card with a letter grade and citizenship grade for each class posted on
it.
An official record of grades, attendance, citizenship, and test scores, etc., for grades 9-12. Get a
copy of your transcript from your school counselor or the school registrar.
Utah Colleges of Applied Technology provide education and training in CTE programs that meet
business and industry requirements for new jobs in Utah. Students can earn a license, certificate,
or an associate’s of applied technology degree.
An institution of higher learning where students can earn a bachelor's, master’s, doctorate, and
professional degrees (law, medicine, etc.). Universities emphasize research. Specific admissions
requirements must be met to be admitted to a university.
UtahFutures in the official career information system in Utah schools (http://utahfutures.org) for
career and educational exploration and planning. Every student in secondary schools can create
an electronic portfolio (CCR-Plan) to manage and keep a record of career and educational planning
activities. School counselors are in charge of helping students set up their portfolios.
A program that gives students the opportunity to learn skills and to be introduced to the working
world outside of school – internships, job shadowing, seminars, Reality Town, etc.
On-the-job experience paid or volunteer. Students can earn elective credit for high school
graduation with work experience. Students can earn 1.0 elective credit for 180 hours of
documented (pay stub) work.
34
School Success
Make time to Study!
Before you begin working on homework assignments, set a “START” and “STOP” time that
does not go over two hours. During that two-hour period, use a “20 minutes on, 10 minutes
off” strategy.
• During the “20 minutes on” time, sit in an area that is free from other distractions
(TV, iPod, music, cell phone, family members, etc.).
• Work on assignments for 20 minutes straight (you may want to set a timer). When
20 minutes are up, take a 10 minute break.
• During the 10 minutes break, get up and move around and do something that will
take your mind off of what you were working on your homework.
• When the 10 minute break is over, go back and work for another 20 minutes. Keep
doing the “20 minutes on, 10 minutes off” strategy until you have reached your twohour “STOP” time.
• Do the hardest assignment first.
• Find a homework helper if you need one. This can be a good friend, someone in your
class or a parent.
• Ask your family to respect your homework time. If you want, put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door.
Get Organized!
•
•
•
•
•
Make sure you have the supplies you need for your homework: paper, pencil, pen, computer, textbooks, assignment
papers, etc.
Get a planner or a calendar to keep track of what you do in class. Take it with you to every class, every day! Keep a record
(write down) a brief summary of what you do in class (assignments and due dates) and any other notes to help you keep on
track.
Have one folder or one binder per class to put homework assignments in – each a different color and clearly labeled for
each of your classes.
Do your homework in the same place every day. Make sure it’s a quiet place and turn off the TV, iPod, cell phone, and
distracting sites on your computer (Facebook, YouTube, etc.).
Eat a meal or light snack before doing your homework.
No Excuses!
•
•
•
•
•
•
“I don’t have time!” – Remember, homework is not optional!
“I don’t understand it!” – Ask your teacher for help before the school day is over. Do all the parts you can do, then figure
out where you’re stuck. At home, don’t be afraid to ask an adult or your older brother or sister to help you.
“I can’t ever finish it!” – Find out why. Are you distracted? Are you having trouble in a certain subject? Ask your teacher or
a parent for some advice about managing your time.
“I have too much homework!” – Get organized! Make a homework schedule that says what you’ll do and when you’ll do it.
Use a planner to help with short and long term assignments.
“I forget to take my books home!” – Remind yourself each day before you leave school to do a “Backpack Check”. Do you
have everything you need? Write yourself reminders on your notebook or in your locker – whatever works for you.
The great thing about doing your homework is the feeling you get when it’s DONE!
35
Secrets to School Success Checklist
Answer the following statements with Yes (Y), No (N), or Sometimes (S) to assess your level of
commitment to school success.
_______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
SCORING:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
I attend school regularly (no more than 6 absences a year).
I try to sit close to the front of the room in my classes.
I give my teachers eye contact.
I am on time to all of my classes.
I meet with my teachers to discuss assignments and make-up work.
I ask questions in class when I don’t understand assignments.
I participate in class discussions.
I turn my assignments in on time.
When I am absent, I ask for make-up work the day I get back.
I do extra credit regularly.
My assignments are neat and organized when I turn them in.
I make a table of contents for binders, notebooks, and reports.
I take notes in my core classes (English, math, science, social studies).
I review my class notes and assignments every day.
I read regularly for school assignments and for my own enjoyment.
I have a regular study time at home.
I eat a nutritious breakfast every morning.
I get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
I want to succeed in school.
I behave appropriately in all of my classes.
The people I care most about value my opinions.
I have a good school schedule.
I know what my abilities and interests are.
I have a plan for school success today and for the future.
My parents are involved in my education.
Y = 1 point
N = 0 point
S = ½ point
15-20 points
10-14 points
0-9 points
You want to be successful in school.
You are working on being successful in school.
You need some help in learning how to be
Successful in school.
Your Score
_________
TO DO:
Identify what you need to work on. Set clear goals for improving your level of commitment to being successful in school.
Create a plan to accomplish your goals.
36
Important Policy
Article X.A.4ii. High School Graduation
Requirements (Updated March 2014)
A. Charge and Responsibility
Students will leave Granite School District prepared for
college, career, and life in the 21st Century world.
State law and the Utah State Board of Education have
established certain high school completion
requirements and guidelines which provide a
framework for the Board of Education of Granite School
District. With this policy, the Board of Education
establishes specific standards and requirements for
graduation from Granite School District.
B. Graduation Requirements
Schools may offer a Granite School District Diploma and
school diplomas (e.g. Kearns High School Diploma or a
school Diploma of Merit).
1. Granite District Diploma
The requirements for the Granite School District
Diploma are those established by the Utah State Board
of Education as enumerated in R277-700.
2. School Diplomas
a. In addition to the requirements for a Granite
District Diploma, receipt of a school diploma is
contingent upon the following:
i. additional credit requirements as
determined by the Board of Education
of Granite School District and
enumerated in the High School Manual,
ii. Citizenship Point Average of 2.00, and
iii. enrollment in the school during the
student’s final year.
b. Schools may establish requirements in
addition to the foregoing for a school enhanced
diploma.
C. Earning Credit
1. Students of any age may earn credit toward
graduation by any of the following methods:
a. Successful completion of credit-bearing
courses (in-person or online courses) offered by
secondary schools accredited by AdvanceEd or
approved by the State Board of Education.
b. Successful completion of concurrent
enrollment classes.
c. Passing score on District administered
competency assessments.
2. School counselors shall make information regarding
approved options for earning credit toward high school
graduation readily available to students and parents.
D. Credit Recovery
Credit recovery programs are district or school
programs outside of the regular school program that
provide students with an option for recovering credit
for a previously failed course. Credit is awarded upon
successful course completion or demonstration of
competency through a District approved assessment.
E. Non-Accredited Providers
Students seeking credit for work done in non-accredited
settings (e.g. home school, non- accredited private
schools, etc.) must be referred to the District Credit
Review Committee for evaluation of the work. Credit
awarded by the Committee shall be reflected on the
student’s transcript. The Committee is authorized to
review and award credit based on the following criteria:
1. Alignment of the syllabus or course outline with the
State Core Standards.
2. Course content that matches Core course
requirements as demonstrated through submission of
coursework, test scores, etc.
3. Scores on quarterly benchmark assessments
administered by the District.
F. Grades
Grades earned in all credit-bearing courses will factor
into a student’s cumulative grade point average.
G. Students with Disabilities
The IEPs of students with disabilities may contain and
document modifications, substitutions, and/or
exemptions to meet the needs of the students. Such
modifications, substitutions, and/or exemptions shall
conform to State Special Education Rules.
37
Attention Students and Parents!
Commit to Graduate from
High School!
We want you (all students) to commit to graduate from
high school no matter what it takes or how hard it gets.
You can do it! Never give up! When you graduate from
high school you will face the future with confidence. You
will be ready to open doors for amazing opportunities.
You will be prepared to give back to your family, your
community, and your country. Sign the pledge card make the commitment!
A college education is the gateway to
lifelong opportunities. A college education leads to high
level skills and high paying jobs. Too few students are
graduating from high school ready for college. There is an
urgent need to prepare YOU (and all students) to be
college, career, and life ready.
• Elementary, junior high school, and high school prepare students to be READY for college, career, and life.
• College has a new definition – it can be 1, 2, or 4 years of education after high school. That means 1- year diploma or
certificate programs; 2-year associate’s or technical degree; or 4-year bachelor’s degree, and beyond
• All students can go to college to prepare for a career that can lead to successful life experiences and opportunities.
http://www.stepuputah.com/
You can go!
Put aside any doubts you may have about going to college, you can and will go. You can reach your dreams by stepping up to higher
education. Many students just like you have said, “I’m going to college”, and you can, too. Good grades and test scores are
definitely helpful but don’t count yourself out. Keep moving forward! www.youcango.collegeboard.org
College is in YOUR student’s future!
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Build college-going ASPIRATIONS and AWARENESS
Pay attention to ACADEMIC planning
Support ENRICHMENT and EXTRACURRICULAR engagement
Provide college and career EXPLORATION
Promote college and career AWARENESS
Think about COLLEGE AFFORDABILITY planning
Understand the college and career ADMISSION’S process
Make the TRANSITION from high school graduation to college enrollment
(Eight Components of College and Career Readiness Counseling,
The College Board National Office for School Counselor Advocacy, 2010)
YOU
ARE THE
MOST IMPORTANT
INGREDIENT
IN PLANNING
YOUR
FUTURE!
Granite School District
2500 S State Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
www.graniteschools.org